For undergraduate students at Southern Nazarene University, the transition from fall to spring brings more than just a change in weather. Class schedules, campus events, and personal shifts in pace alter how students experience college life. Sophomore physical therapy major Noah Crabtree and junior music and business multidisciplinary major Bryce Burns shared their perspectives on the highs and lows of each semester.
When asked the simple question of which semester they prefer, both Crabtree and Burns stated they favor the spring semester. Crabtree approaches the question from a comfort perspective. “I lean towards liking spring semester more; the vibe feels more relaxed and comfortable. The classes are often set in the morning, and you usually find yourself with an open afternoon,” he said.
Burns explained how the campus events and cooler weather are what motivate his preference for spring. “I prefer the spring semester because we have several fun events such as Heart Pal, Roller Rag, Winter Retreat, and others that we do not have in the fall. I also like the spring semester because it is milder weather, so I am more likely to go out and do things with my friends because I have the time,” he added.
Describing the different emotions of each semester highlights how much students must adjust throughout the year. “The fall semester is definitely very hectic. Everyone comes off the emotional, spiritual high that comes from summer and NSI. Then we all have to adjust to our schedules, but in my experience you do not really get fully adjusted until the last couple weeks of the semester,” Burns commented.
Crabtree shared a similar perspective while noting how the spring semester contrasts with the fall. “I feel like the fall semester vibe is usually high energy, and almost like a reunion after summer break. Spring semester feels calmer and settled in because you know how the school year is going to look and the foundations of it,” he explained.
Although both students prefer the spring semester, they have differing opinions when it comes to personal motivation and productivity. “I feel like I am more productive in the fall semester because I’m running off of some of the high emotions of getting back to school. Since I am also unsure of how the school year is going to be structured, it makes me stay focused,” Crabtree explained.
With a different perspective, Burns added, “ In my three years at SNU, I feel like my productivity has always been better in the spring. In the fall there is so much going on, and I want to be a part of everything. Spring is a run to the finish, so I do not feel as though I really have time to get complacent with my work.”
Whether students prefer the quick pace of the fall, or the steadiness of the spring, both semesters bring their own challenges and rewards. Crabtree and Burns shared how motivation, productivity, and personal experience can adjust with schedules, emotions, and campus life.
Photo by: SNU Creative